Fast fashion is passe — this is the time for handcrafted collectables to shine. Timeless, handcrafted polymer clay creations are featherlight, durable and boast terrific artisanal value.
The light and pliable clay can be quite flexible and durable if baked properly. This makes it easy for designers to curate and re-touch them and add customisations. There are a number of Instagram stores and artists who are offering hand-crafted, small-batch or made-to-order polymer clay jewellery themed around relatable items or trends. Here are some great examples:
Easy florals
Love all things floral? Well, CupK Jewelry’s creations are what you need this summer. With an easy-breezy vibe, this brand’s creations are vibrant and summer-approved. From sunflowers and daisies to bright peonies, their jewellery is totes adorbs!
Abstract elements
This Kolkata-based brand believes in simplicity. Taking into account your aesthetic and aura, Auburn by Ruchita offers artsy customisations to help create the perfect piece for you. The label also customises ring holders, small jewellery bowls and decor pieces for your home.
Architecture-inspired pieces
Sculptural pieces or old-world architecture-inspired numbers are all the rage. These numbers created by the Instagram label, We Like To Clay, borrow design influences from bright Moroccan tiles coveted all over the world. They’ve been created using the silkscreen method on clay and the intricacies in design shine through, owing to the intelligent use of colours.
Food-themed picks
Kriti Bhatnagar’s brand Mindful Vibing makes the quirkiest miniature food-themed pieces that are oh-so-bright. The label also offers a wide selection of customisations, since it’s very easy to create texture with polymer clay. Just look at these vibrant burger earrings that feature miniature lettuce, tomatoes and sesame!
All of their jewellery is hand-sanded using a series of fine grit papers to ensure that each piece is shaped to perfection and buffed to a supple, smooth finish.
Clay marbling
You must have seen lots of aesthetically pleasing clay marbling tutorials on social media. And now you can get your hands on this art! The process is a delicate one but the results are striking. This brand’s stained glass earrings showcase one of the unique ways clay marbling can be incorporated into designs.
Hand-painted clay
Clayopatra makes tarnish-resistant earrings featuring gorgeous handmade art. Their newest line features spring florals from across the globe, like Japanese sakura, English poppies, tropical lilies etc. Handcrafted with the labour of love, these vibrant pieces are unique and the sheer variety of designs will leave you spoilt for choice.
